Today’s defense news features developments in military procurement, training, and strategic organization. Discussions are underway for a significant F-35 contract, and new systems are being developed to counter evolving threats.
Pentagon, Lockheed Martin Discuss Multi-Year F-35 Deal
The Pentagon and Lockheed Martin are discussing a potential decade-long, multi-billion dollar deal for F-35 Joint Strike Fighter production and sustainment, according to Breaking Defense. This agreement could include “bulk buys” of spare parts, starting around the jet’s 21st production lot in approximately three years. Proponents argue that multi-year agreements offer industry predictability, allowing for long-term investments and economies of scale to reduce costs. A key supplier, Honeywell Aerospace, noted the “big benefit” would largely be on the sustainment side, aiming to improve the F-35’s readiness rates by increasing spare parts supply.
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- Pentagon, Lockheed weigh multi-year F-35 production, sustainment deal (Breaking Defense)
Estonian Firm Develops Shahed-Like Dummy Drone
Estonian company KrattWorks is developing a new aerial target drone to mimic jet-powered Shahed-type drones, Defense News reports. This initiative aims to help militaries practice shooting down aerial threats similar to those used by Russia in Ukraine. KrattWorks business development manager Ranno Pajuri expects the dummy drone to be presented by the end of 2027. Analysis: This development highlights the growing need for cost-effective training solutions against increasingly prevalent drone threats.
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U.S. Army Seeks Palletized Drone Defense System
The U.S. Army is seeking to develop a new short-range air defense system, known as Maneuver-Short Range Air Defense Increment Four, that can be loaded onto almost any vehicle, Defence Blog reports. This system is intended to protect light and fast-moving units against drones, helicopters, and attack aircraft. The Army plans to brief defense companies on October 27 and 28 in Huntsville, Alabama, seeking industry partners for development and production. The Army aims for initial operational capability with Increment Four by late fiscal 2029.
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- U.S. Army seeks drone defense for its lightest units (Defence Blog)
Army Establishes New Autonomous Warfare Command
The U.S. Army has established the Futures and Autonomous Systems Command (FASCOM) to streamline the acquisition of autonomous warfare capabilities, Defense One reports. Announced on Friday, this new command will be led by an acquisition executive, a change from the previous Futures Command. Acting Army Secretary Adam Telle stated the Army is done with bureaucratic inertia hindering modernization. Analysis: This move reflects a broader Department of Defense push to create enduring organizations that can adapt to future technological advancements in autonomy.
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Saudi Arabia Reopens Riyadh Airport After Houthi Attacks
Saudi Arabia has reopened Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport after Houthi attacks killed three people and injured several, Al Jazeera reports. The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) confirmed Thursday’s attacks hit airport facilities and a Saudia aircraft. Saudia Airlines also announced that one of its pilots, Captain Hamoud Ali Alkalthami, was killed. A Houthi military spokesperson claimed responsibility for launching a ballistic missile at King Khalid airport, asserting it successfully hit its target.
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